RIVERSIDE, Calif.- Senior Mercedes Ofoegbu has been a massive force for the La Sierra Women's Basketball team over the last three years. Wearing number 11 on her back, Ofoegbu has dominated as a forward for La Sierra. Mercedes rookie season with La Sierra was cut short due to covid. She appeared in 3 games for a total of 16 points with a 46.2 FG% and a 80% FT%. Mercedes showed her skills in the 2021-22 season appearing in 18 games with 8 games started for a total of 302 minutes. Ofoegbu posted 154 points for a 51.5 FG% and a 47.6 FT%. She added 86 rebounds, 11 assists, 20 steals, and 1 block. Fighting injury this season, Mercedes has shown how crucial she is to the team. She has appeared in 18 games with 13 starts for a total of 436 minutes. With 154 points so far, Ofoegbu goes for a field goal percentage of 43.7 and a free throw percentage of 51.5. Mercedes also has 105 rebounds, 18 assists, 24 steals, and 10 blocks.
Mercedes has been studying Pre-nursing the past few years at La Sierra. Mercedes did not choose La Sierra; La Sierra chose her. Mercedes future plans include obtaining her BA and BSN, then providing clinics to low-income areas.
Mercedes describes her time at La Sierra as such, "My time at La Sierra was eye opening. I've endured many hardships both athletically and academically but it made me who I am today."
Let's all congratulate and thank Mercedes Ofoegbu for all her accomplishments and hard work on and off the court. We wish you all the best and can't wait to see where life takes you.
Here is a little more about Mercedes Ofoegbu.
Q: How long have you been playing this sport and how did you get into playing this sport?
Mercedes Ofoegbu: I started playing basketball at 7years old. I was originally a Track and Field person but I seen my siblings always interested so I decided to play on the same team as my little brother.
Q: Who is your biggest influence?
MO: My biggest influence is my mother. I've seen her struggle and give up a lot for me to be where I am today. We may argue time from time but she continues to push and motivate me to do better in life.
Q: Do you have any superstitions or pre-game rituals?
MO: I believe that a team should have PGS :)
Q: What is your perfect pre-game meal?
MO: Teriyaki Don / Salmon and rice.
Q: Go to pump up song or music?
MO: No smoke - NBA Youngboy
Q: Do you like to get hyped before games or stay calm?
MO: I love to get hyped before games.
Q: What do you enjoy doing on your off days?
MO: I sleep in and catch up on my shows on my days off .
Q: Who on the team are you closest with?
MO: I am closest with Kaylee Martinez aka KC aka Big Steppa !
Q: Who is your favorite sports team/player?
MO: I love Nneka Ogwumike on the sparks , Ja Morant ( Grizzlies), Luka Doncic ( mavericks ) .
Q: What are five things you can't live without?
MO: Phone, water , Aquaphor (for luscious lips ) , Candy Crush ( level 578) and TikTok
Q: Do you have any hobbies?
MO: Sleeping
Q: What is your most unique talent?
MO: Singing duh
Q: If you could travel anywhere, where would it be and why?
MO: I would like to travel to Jamaica, I heard the all inclusive hotels are a reaaaal HOOT ! :)
Q: What is your favorite movie and TV show?
MO: Favorite movie : Suicide Squad Favorite tv show : Rick n Morty & Bobs Burgers
